Readings for the Rite of Christian Funerals St. Teresa's Parish 120 Mundy Pond Rd. St. John's, NL, A1E 1V1 t 709.579.0065 f 709.579.3804 www.stteresa.ca Served by the Redemptorists - St. Alphonsus Founder
TABLE OF CONTENTS FOR THE BEREAVEMENT BOOK Pages Order in Book 1 Form for Rite of Christian Funeral (Adult and Child) 1 Form for Music Selections 1 Overview 1 Outline of the Rite 1 Funeral Music Policies, St. Teresa's Parish 1 Letter from the Bishop regarding Eulogies 1-4 Catholic Funerals and Eulogies, the Pall and the Flag (CCCB) 1-4 Catholics and Cremation (CCCB) Index for Old Testament Readings 1-20 Old Testament Readings Index for New Testament Readings 1-20 New Testament Readings Index for Gospel Readings 1-24 Gospel Readings Index for Prayers of the Faithful 1-4 Adult (Male) - A, B, C and D 5-8 Adult (Female) - E, F, G and H 9-10 Child (Boy) - I and J 11-12 Child (Girl) - K and L 13 Child who died before birth - M 1 Order of Service - Sample 1 List of Other Readings 1 Index
St. Teresa's Parish, 120 Mundy Pond Rd., St. John's, NL, A1E 1V1 t 709.579.0065 f 709.579.3804 www.stteresa.ca Name of the Deceased: RITE OF CHRISTIAN FUNERAL FOR the Family an Adult X a Child Placement of the Pall by: St. Teresa's Funeral Servers Family Contact: Presider: Fr. Rich Luberti Fr. Tomy Mathew Fr. Tony Bidgood Date and Time of the Funeral: Date & Time of Vigil: OT Readings for an Adult: Read by: Page 1 Job 19:23-27 2 Proverbs 31:10-13, 16-18, 20, 26, 28-31 3 Ecclesiastes 3:1-11 4 Song of Songs 2:8-14 5 Song of Songs 8:6-7 6 Wisdom 3:1-2, 5-9 7 Wisdom 4:7-10, 13-15 8 Sirach 44:1, 10-15 9 *Isaiah 25:6-9 10 Isaiah 35:1-6, 10 11 Isaiah 41:8-10, 13-14 12 Isaiah 57:15, 18-19 13 Isaiah 61:1-3 14 Isaiah 65:17-21 15 *Lamentations 3:22-26 16 Ezekiel 34:11-12, 15-16 17 Ezekiel 37:1, 4-6, 12-14 18 Daniel 12:1-3 19 Micah 6:6-8 20 Zephaniah 3:16-17, 20 NT Readings for an Adult: Read by: 1 Acts 10:34-43 2 Romans 5:5-11 3 Romans 5:18-21 4 *Romans 6:3-4, 8-9 5 Romans 8:14-23 6 Romans 8:31b-35, 37-39 7 *Romans 14:7-9 8 *1 Corinthians 15:20-23 9 1 Corinthians 15:51-55, 57 10 2 Corinthians 4:14-5:1 11 2 Corinthians 5:1, 6-9 (1) (2) Gift Bearers: (Omit for Rite outside of Mass) Pastoral Care: 12 Philippians 3:20-21 13 *1 Thessalonians 4:13-14, 18 14 2 Timothy 2:8, 11-13 15 2 Timothy 4:6-8 16 1 John 3:1-2 17 1 John 3:14, 16 18 Revelation 14:13 19 Revelation 20:11-12, 15-21:1 20 *Revelation 21:1a, 3-5a Gospel Readings for an Adult: The Gospel is ordinarily chosen by the Priest. 1 Matthew 5:1-12a 2 *Matthew 11:27-30 3 Matthew 25:1-13 4&5 Matthew 25:31-46 6 *Mark 10:13-16 7&8 Mark 15:33-39, 16:1-6 9 Luke 7:11-17 10 Luke 12:35-40 11 Luke 23:33, 39-43 12 Luke 23:44-46, 50, 52-53, 24:1-6a 13&14 Luke 24:13-35 15 John 5:24-29 16 John 6:37-40 17 John 6:51-58a 18 John 11:17-27 19&20 John 11:32-40 21 John 12:23-28 22 John 14:1-6 23 John 17:24-26 24 John 19:17-18, 25-30 Prayers of the Faithful for an Adult: Read by: Male A B C D Female E F G H (Pastoral Care Representative Initials) (* Readings the church recommends as suitable for Children)
St. Teresa's Parish, 120 Mundy Pond Rd., St. John's, NL, A1E 1V1 t 709.579.0065 f 709.579.3804 www.stteresa.ca RITE OF CHRISTIAN FUNERAL FOR an Adult a Child X Baptized Unbaptized Name of the Deceased: Family Contact: Presider: Fr. Rich Luberti Fr. Tomy Mathew Fr. Tony Bidgood Date and Time of the Funeral: Pastoral Care: Date & Time of Vigil: FOR THE FUNERAL OF A CHILD OT Readings - Baptized or Unbaptized Child: Read by: Page 9 Isaiah 25:6-9 15 Lamentations 3:22-26 NT Readings - Baptized Child: (no NT reading for Unbaptized Child) Read by: Page 4 Romans 6:3-4, 8-9 7 Romans 14:7-9 8 1 Corinthians 15:20-23 13 1 Thessalonians 4:13-14, 18 20 Revelation 21:1a, 3-5a Gospel Readings - Baptized or Unbaptized Child: The Gospel is ordinarily chosen by the Priest. If the family of the deceased wishes otherwise, please notify the Bereavement Team. Page 2 Matthew 11:27-30 6 Mark 10:13-16 Prayers of the Faithful for a Child: Read by: Baptized Boy I J Girl K L Unbaptized Boy M N Girl O P Before Birth Q (1) Gift Bearers: (Omit for Rite outside of Mass) (2) (Pastoral Care Representative Initials)
St. Teresa's Parish, 120 Mundy Pond Rd., St. John's, NL, A1E 1V1 t 709.579.0065 f 709.579.3804 www.stteresa.ca Name of the Deceased: MUSIC SELECTIONS (If desired) RITE OF CHRISTIAN FUNERAL FOR Family Contact: Presider: Fr. Rich Luberti Fr. Tomy Mathew Fr. Tony Bidgood Date and Time of the Funeral: Pastoral Care: * Note: Hymns with "Alleluia" are not sung during Lent and instrumentals are not permitted during Lent. Entrance All People That on Earth Do Dwell, Gather III 853 Amazing Grace, Gather III 645 At the Lamb s High Feast We Sing, Gather III 536 Be Not Afraid, Gather III 683 Father, We Thank You, Who Have Planted, Gather III 632 *For All the Saints, Gather III 884 Here I Am, Lord, Gather III 777 I Want to Walk as a Child of the Light, Gather III 593 Jerusalem, My Happy Home, Gather III 870 *Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence, Gather III 619 Lord of All Hopefulness, Gather III 663 Now Thank We All Our God, Gather III 636 Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, Gather III 616 *Seek Ye First, Gather III 658 We Walk by Faith, Gather III 680 You Are Near, Gather III 695 Responsorial Psalm Psalm 23 My Shepherd Is the Lord (vs 1, 2, 3, 4), Gather III 34 Psalm 34 The Cry of the Poor, Gather III 47 Psalm 51 Have Mercy, Lord (vs 1, 2, 6, 7), Gather III 53 Psalm 63 My Soul Is Thirsting (vs 1, 2, 3), Gather III 56 Psalm 89 Forever I Will Sing, Gather III 64 Communion (Omit for Rite outside of Mass) Draw Near, Gather III 935 Eat This Bread, Gather III 941 I Receive the Living God, Gather III 916 Take and Eat, Gather III 950 You Satisfy the Hungry Heart, Gather III 940 I Am the Bread of Life, Gather III 945 Last Farewell In Paradisum (May Choirs of Angels), Gather III 977 I know That My Redeemer Lives, Gather III 973 May Holy Angels Lead You, Gather III 978 Song of the Angels Departure from the Church All People That on Earth Do Dwell, Gather III 853 Amazing Grace, Gather III 645 Father, We Thank You, Who Have Planted, Gather III 632 How Great Thou Art, Gather III 578 Lord of All Hopefulness, Gather III 663 Now Thank We All Our God, Gather III 636 Praise to the Lord, the Almighty, Gather III 616 *Seek Ye First, Gather III 658 We Walk by Faith, Gather III 680 Offertory (Omit for Rite outside of Mass) Day Is Done, Gather III 858 Dwelling Place, Gather III 678 Jerusalem, My Happy Home, Gather III 870 *Let All Mortal Flesh Keep Silence, Gather III 619 Like a Shepherd, Gather III 402 Make Me A Channel of Your Peace, Gather III 828 Shelter Me O God, Gather III 717 Softly and Tenderly Jesus Is Calling, Gather III 963 You Are Mine, Gather III 721 Be assured that St. Teresa s Music Ministry will do its best to assist you with its expertise in this time of grief. See ST. TERESA'S PARISH, FUNERAL MUSIC POLICIES in the Bereavement Book for more information. Music Director and Musician, Noreen Green Fraize, 749-8206 Music Director s approval sought if selections made other than standard (Pastoral Care Representative Initials)
St. Teresa's Parish, 120 Mundy Pond Rd., St. John's, NL, A1E 1V1 t 709.579.0065 f 709.579.3804 www.stteresa.ca Name of the Deceased: MUSIC SELECTIONS (If desired) RITE OF CHRISTIAN FUNERAL FOR Family Contact: Presider: Fr. Rich Luberti Fr. Tomy Mathew Fr. Tony Bidgood Date and Time of the Funeral: Pastoral Care: * Note: Hymns with "Alleluia" are not sung during Lent and instrumentals are not permitted during Lent. Seasonal Music Advent O Come, O Come, Emmanuel, Gather III 395 Creator of the Stars of Night, Gather III 420 People, Look East, Gather III 409 On Jordan s Bank, Gather III 418 Come, O Long Expected Jesus, Gather III 403 The King Shall Come When Morning Dawns, Gather III 414 Saviour of the Nations, Come, Gather III 421 Christmas Joy to the World, Gather III 437 Hark! The Herald Angels Sing, Gather III 424 O Come, All Ye Faithful/Adeste Fideles, Gather III 439 O Little Town of Bethlehem, Gather III 446 Angels We Have Heard on High, Gather III 430 Good Christian Friends, Rejoice, Gather III 440 Angels, from the Realms of Glory, Gather III 438 Of the Father s Love Begotten, Gather III 427 Once In Royal David s City, Gather III 455 As with Gladness Men of Old, Gather III 465 The First Nowell, Gather III 460 What Star Is This, Gather III 461 Lent The Glory of These Forty Days, Gather III 481 Jerusalem, My Destiny, Gather III 492 Hosea, Gather III 484 Forty Days and Forty Nights, Gather III 483 Parce Domine, Gather III 473 Lord, Who throughout These Forty Days, Gather III 479 O Sacred Head Surrounded, Gather III 512 Easter Sing with All the Saints in Glory, Gather III 539 O Sons and Daughters, Gather III 532 Come, You Faithful, Raise the Strain, Gather III 533 I Know That My Redeemer Lives, Gather III 527 Now the Green Blade Rises, Gather III 537 Jesus Christ Is Risen Today, Gather III 540 The Strife Is O er, Gather III 525 Alleluia No. 1 (Give Thanks to the Risen Lord), Gather III 524 Be assured that St. Teresa s Music Ministry will do its best to assist you with its expertise in this time of grief. See ST. TERESA'S PARISH, FUNERAL MUSIC POLICIES in the Bereavement Book for more information. Music Director and Musician, Noreen Green Fraize, 749-8206 Music Director s approval sought if selections made other than standard (Pastoral Care Representative Initials)
The Pastoral Staff and the worshipping community of St. Teresa's Parish extend to you and your family sincere sympathy on the death of your loved one. It is our hope that the funeral liturgy we will celebrate with you will offer some comfort at this very difficult time. If you would like to choose the Scripture passages for the funeral liturgy, or if you would like to have someone special proclaim the readings, please feel free to make selections from this book. Selecting the best suited readings and prayers will be easier if you recall the life of the person who has died, and remember their commitments, joys and values. If this task is too difficult for you at this time, please let us know and we will select readings and provide a reader from the parish. We would also be happy to help you choose appropriate music. The parish will provide Music Ministers. For your convenience and in an effort to remove some of the burden from you at this time, the Music Director would be pleased to choose music appropriate for your loved one's funeral. If you have a favourite hymn please feel free to ask for it. Appropriate music has been included in this book. There are usually three readings at a funeral liturgy: the First Reading, from the Old Testament, which you may choose; the Second Reading, from the New Testament, which you may also choose; and the Gospel Reading, which is chosen and read by the Priest. Special readings and prayers for a child who has died, for an unbaptized child and for a child lost through miscarriage or stillbirth have been included here as the death of a child is a very particular kind of grief. For your information, the First Reading is proclaimed immediately after the priest says the opening prayer. This is followed by the singing of the Responsorial Psalm. The Second Reading immediately follows the Psalm. The Cantor then intones the Gospel Acclamation, after which the Priest reads the Gospel. Following the Gospel, there is a brief homily. It should be noted that this is not the time to eulogize our loved ones. This is usually done at the funeral home Wake Service. The focus of the homily is the redemption of humankind by a loving and gracious God. There is no Creed after the homily. The Prayers of the Faithful, which you may choose, are read after the priest has returned to the Presider's Chair. He will read a short introductory prayer to the Intercessions (Prayers of the Faithful). As he is reciting this prayer, the reader should go to the pulpit. You may also wish to choose someone to bring up the gifts of Bread and Wine. We encourage the participation of many close friends and relatives in the liturgy. Please take a moment to fill out the enclosed form indicating your choice of readings, readers and gift bearers.
OUTLINE OF THE RITE OF CHRISTIAN FUNERALS WITHIN MASS Introductory Rites Sign of the Cross Greeting [Placing the Pall] Entrance Procession Processional Hymn [Penitential Rite] Opening Prayer Liturgy of the Word Readings First Reading from the Old Testament Responsorial Psalm Second Reading from the New Testament Gospel Acclamation Gospel Homily General Intercessions (Prayers of the Faithful) OUTSIDE MASS Introductory Rites Sign of the Cross Greeting [Placing the Pall] Entrance Procession Processional Hymn [Penitential Rite] Opening Prayer Liturgy of the Word Readings First Reading from the Old Testament Responsorial Psalm Second Reading from the New Testament Gospel Acclamation Gospel Homily General Intercessions (Prayers of the Faithful) The Lord's Prayer Liturgy of the Eucharist Preparation of the Altar and Gifts Eucharistic Prayer Communion Rite Communion Hymn Final Commendation Invitation to Prayer [Signs of Farewell] Song of Farewell Prayer of Commendation Procession to the Place of Committal Recessional Hymn Final Commendation Invitation to Prayer [Signs of Farewell] Song of Farewell Prayer of Commendation Procession to the Place of Committal Recessional Hymn "Acolyte" means a candle bearer or those who assist at a Mass; "Cantor" means a person who sings; "Celebrant" means the priest presiding at a Mass; "Concelebrant" means another priest celebrating Mass with the Celebrant; "Cross Bearer" means the person who carries the Cross; "Extraordinary Minister" means a person other than a priest who gives out Communion; "Gift Bearer" means a person who brings up gifts of bread and wine to the altar; "Leader of Song" means the person who leads the community in song; "Ordinary Minister" means the priest; and "Organist" means the person who plays the organ.
FUNERAL MUSIC POLICIES Music for funerals at St. Teresa's Parish is handled by the church's music director and musician, Noreen Green Fraize, 749-8206. St. Teresa's Parish requires the use of our organist and cantors at all funerals. Requests for musicians other than those required by the parish may be submitted to the music director. The selection of music may be left up to the music director. If desired, the bereaved may submit music for the funeral liturgy chosen from the attached list of appropriate music. If there are suggestions for music other than those that appear on this list please communicate this as soon as possible. If the bereaved wishes to have other instruments (i.e., flute, violin, trumpet) play with the organ this can be arranged through the music director. These musicians will have their own fees. Music selections and special requests should be communicated to the music director as soon as possible. If it is more convenient, the family may give any music selections chosen from the list to the bereavement team and they will promptly forward the selections. It may not be possible to accommodate arrangements which are requested the night before the funeral. St. Teresa's Pastoral Staff
Letter to Priests continued... Page 3 of 3 October 9, 1997 No. 27 of the General Instruction reads in part: "A brief homily based on the readings is always given after the gospel reading at the funeral liturgy and may also be given after readings at the vigil service; but there is never to be a eulogy". It is my understanding that although a homily can contain personal elements regarding the deceased, it must be based on the selected readings and with an emphasis on the importance of death and the promise of eternal life. A eulogy - a testimony to the deceased - does not include what is central to the homily: some way of restating the substance of the memorial acclamation that Christ has died, Christ has risen, and Christ will come again. I ask that this be the practice throughout the archdiocese. With every good wish, I am, In Our Lord, MOST REVEREND JAMES H. MACDONALD, C.S.C., D.D. Archbishop of St. John's JHMD/jes St. Teresa's Parish
Eulogies ST. TERESA'S PARISH CATHOLIC FUNERALS AND EULOGIES, THE PALL AND THE FLAG Some helpful information for preparing a funeral liturgy Page 1 When a loved one dies, the grieving family and friends are anxious to honour the memory of the loved one in every way they can. One of the ways some wish to do this is to include a eulogy somewhere in the funeral rites. Catholics are sometimes surprised to learn, as they prepare for the funeral liturgy, that a eulogy is not permitted and there is no provision for a eulogy by the family in the ritual. The General Introduction to the Order of Christian Funerals quite clearly states that the homily after the gospel reading is never to be a eulogy. On the other hand, the eulogy is often a significant feature in non Catholic funerals and sometimes appreciated by those present. Two things should be kept in mind as people prepare for a funeral liturgy and the question of a eulogy is considered. The first is what is meant by the word, eulogy. According to the dictionary, it is "a formal speech or a piece of writing of high praise of a person" (The Penguin Canadian Dictionary). The second is that the funeral liturgy is, as is all liturgy, an act of praise and thanksgiving for Christ's victory over sin and death, a proclamation of the paschal mystery. This act of worship belongs to the whole community, to the whole Church, and not to any individual or group. Any elements that do not give expression to this act of worship do not have a place. Acknowledgement of the Deceased The fact that a eulogy is not permitted does not mean that there is to be no reference to the deceased person during the homily. Those who preach are directed to dwell on God's compassionate love and the paschal mystery as proclaimed in the scripture readings. As well, they are directed to be attentive to the grief of those present and to help them understand the mystery of God's love and the paschal mystery in the life of the deceased person and in their own lives. References to the person's life of faith and love are obviously appropriate. It is the "high praise" of a eulogy in the strict sense of the word, praise which has no reference to Christian life and sometimes is exaggerated, that is out of place in an act of worship. In situations where the homilist does not know the deceased person, it might be helpful for family members or friends to share stories about him or her with the one who will be preaching, with the one presiding if this is not the same person, or with a pastoral minister who represents the parish. There are other instances in the funeral liturgy where reference is made to the person for whom the funeral is being celebrated, at the various invitations to prayer, for example. National Liturgy Office, CCCB, 2500 Don Reid Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada, K1H 2J2, Copyright Concacan Inc. 1998, 2003.
CATHOLIC FUNERALS AND EULOGIES, THE PALL AND THE FLAG Some helpful information for preparing a funeral liturgy Page 2 These invitations are not speeches about the person but are intended to call the community to keep the deceased person in mind and to pray for the needs of the family and the community in this particular circumstance. Words of Remembrance at the Vigil The Order of Christian Funerals recognizes our need to reflect on the life of a loved one who has just died. It provides an opportunity for a family member or friend to speak at the (evening) vigil for the deceased - just before the concluding rite. The vigil is an important part of the funeral liturgy and its first liturgical moment. During it, the community gathers to support the grieving family and proclaim publicly the scriptures that express the Church's faith and hope in the resurrection of Jesus. It is also a ritual that is less formal and more intimate than the main funeral liturgy, which is often a celebration of the Eucharist but can also be a celebration of a liturgy of the word. The vigil is more flexible and provides a greater variety of choices. The Order of Christian Funerals provides twelve versions of the service, with choices of scripture readings within each one and the possibility of choosing elements from various vigil services to make the rite more personal. Because of the vigil's more intimate nature, it is more appropriate to include in it these words of remembrance that refer more directly to the deceased person, if the family so wishes. This too is not a eulogy in the strict sense of the word, that is, a formal speech of "high praise," but rather telling the story of the person. Those who prepare such words of remembrance will want to keep in mind that the vigil service is Christian liturgy, and the focus should be the Christian life of the person. They will want to also guard against making it unduly long. Sometimes family members want to provide those who come to the funeral liturgy to share their grief with an account of the deceased person's life, with biographical details and a summary of his or her activities. The family might consider preparing a printed leaflet that can be handed out at the funeral or at any other appropriate time. Another opportunity for the family to share the story of the deceased person is at the reception which often follows the funeral liturgy. National Liturgy Office, CCCB, 2500 Don Reid Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada, K1H 2J2, Copyright Concacan Inc. 1998, 2003.
The Pall ST. TERESA'S PARISH CATHOLIC FUNERALS AND EULOGIES, THE PALL AND THE FLAG Some helpful information for preparing a funeral liturgy Page 3 If we listen carefully to the texts used at a funeral liturgy, we discover that there are several references made to the baptism of the person who is now deceased. One reference occurs at the very beginning of the liturgy, during the rite of the reception of the body. To emphasize the importance of the person's baptism, the Church in Canada encourages the use of a pall at the funeral liturgy. This pall is placed on the coffin during the rite of reception of the body by family members, friends, or by parish ministers. This pall is a reminder of the white baptismal garment, a sign of the Christian dignity of the person. Just as the new Christian was clothed in the white garment when he or she became a member of the Church, the coffin is covered with a white cloth as the person enters into a new life in the resurrection of Jesus. Covering the coffin is a way to make a statement about the identity of the deceased; it proclaims that the greatest thing that can be said about the deceased person is that he or she is a sister or brother of Christ, a member of the Church. The pall is also a sign of hope, of the resurrection, of new life beyond this life, a banner that points to a continued relationship to the deceased person in the time to come. Its use also signifies that in the eyes of God all are equal (Order of Christian Funerals, no. 38). It might also be said that it is the white cloth itself that is the symbol; it does not need to have any symbols added to it to explain or add to what it means. This identity of the deceased person as a Christian is considered by the Church to be fundamental and primary, and it is the focus in a special way. For this reason the General Introduction to the Order of Christian Funerals says that only Christian symbols may be on or near the coffin during the funeral liturgy. Flags and insignia of associations, even Christian associations, should be placed elsewhere, or at least taken off the coffin for the liturgy. National Liturgy Office, CCCB, 2500 Don Reid Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada, K1H 2J2, Copyright Concacan Inc. 1998, 2003.
The Flag ST. TERESA'S PARISH CATHOLIC FUNERALS AND EULOGIES, THE PALL AND THE FLAG Some helpful information for preparing a funeral liturgy Page 4 When persons who are or were in the military die, family and friends often wish to display the (national) flag as a symbol of national service. They want to drape the flag over the coffin, as is the custom at a "military" funeral. For Catholics, however, baptism remains the fundamental identity. Other emblems should not displace Christian symbols reminding the community of the person's baptism. The flag could be put on a standard and placed near the entrance, where it will be visible to all as they enter. If, however, the family does want to have the flag placed on the coffin, it can be done when the coffin is being transported to and from the church where the main funeral liturgy is to be celebrated. The flag (which should be a suitable size) can then be removed and folded with appropriate ceremony and respect just before the pall is to be placed on the coffin during the welcoming of the body. The flag then becomes part of the ritual action in the liturgy. The pall will be removed after the liturgy, and the flag can again be placed on the coffin as it is being transported out of the church. National Liturgy Office, CCCB, 2500 Don Reid Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada, K1H 2J2, Copyright Concacan Inc. 1998, 2003.
CATHOLICS AND CREMATION Some answers to questions regarding cremation and funerals Page 1 Some people do not know whether cremation is permitted for Catholics. The answer is simply: yes. Some may remember that at one time Catholics were prohibited from having their bodies cremated. Early Christians followed the Jewish practice of giving honourable burial to the dead. They did not use cremation. These early Christians made great efforts to retrieve the bodies of their martyrs and bury them with honour, as one can see in their catacombs. In Christian countries the "pagan" practice of cremation more or less disappeared. In fact, it was made a capital offense by civil authorities such as Charlemagne through his law in 789. In the latter part of the nineteenth century various groups introduced the practice of cremation in Europe, where for many centuries the Christian custom of earth burial had been the only way to dispose of the bodies of the deceased. The Church suspected that the motives of those promoting cremation were anti Christian, and therefore, in 1886, prohibited cremation for Catholics, legislating that the practice was incompatible with a Catholic burial. Cremation as such was never seen as incompatible with Christianity, but it was the motives that were suspect. When it became apparent that cremation was also being promoted for reasons that were not anti Christian but rather to confront materialism and a denial of death, the Church, in 1963, lifted its prohibition. Therefore, Catholics are free to choose cremation for any reason, unless it is for reasons that are contrary to Christian teaching (Code of Canon Law, 1176 3). People choose cremation for many reasons: hygiene, lack of space for earth burial, economic reasons, etc. In some situations cremation is the only option, for example, when a body is almost destroyed in a fire or when the remains must be transported any distance. If cremation is chosen for economic reasons, remember that the differences in costs are relative. There are still costs involved in cremation. It is a good idea to ask at funeral homes about these costs, even when there is no funeral imminent. Cremation and the Liturgy The full celebration of a Christian funeral consists of three main rites or "stations": the vigil for the deceased (the first time the community gathers to pray and listen to God's word), the funeral liturgy (either a funeral Mass or a liturgy of the word), and the rite of committal normally celebrated at the body's final resting place. All three of these rites should be celebrated whenever possible. National Liturgy Office, CCCB, 2500 Don Reid Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada, K1H 2J2, Copyright Concacan Inc. 1998, 2003.
CATHOLICS AND CREMATION Some answers to questions regarding cremation and funerals Page 2 The Church has always expressed its belief in life after death and in the resurrection through its care in preparing the body for burial. The prayers and gestures used in the liturgy show its reverence for the deceased Christian's body, which the Church considers sacred because it has been a temple of the Holy Spirit and has shared in the eucharistic food of Jesus himself. Because of its reverence for this body, the Church still prefers the traditional burial in a grave or tomb in memory of Jesus' body being placed in a tomb. However, if cremation has been chosen, the Church will celebrate the funeral rites, unless there is evidence that cremation was chosen for reasons contrary to Christian belief. There are three options in this case. When cremation takes place after the funeral liturgy The Church prefers the option of having the cremation take place after the funeral liturgy in order to celebrate its three principal funeral rites in the presence of the body; it can then show to the body the reverence it always has through the signs that have long been part of the Church's tradition. The vigil for the deceased and the funeral liturgy are celebrated as usual, with a slight change in the final commendation after the funeral liturgy to indicate that the procession with the body will proceed to the crematorium and not to the cemetery. If the family and friends accompany the body to the crematorium, the rite of committal may be celebrated there. There is one more opportunity for a prayer service after the cremation: when the cremated remains are buried or entombed. Families may also choose to have only one prayer service: the rite of committal for the burial or entombment of the cremated remains. When cremation takes place before the funeral liturgy Sometimes cremation cannot be delayed until the funeral rites have been celebrated. Occasionally the remains will be interred before the funeral liturgy. If it is possible, the vigil for the deceased is celebrated before the cremation. A rite of committal of the cremated remains, with the final commendation that usually concludes the funeral liturgy, accompanies the interment. The friends and family of the deceased person then gather with the Christian community for the funeral liturgy. Such a funeral liturgy can also be celebrated when the body cannot be found or was destroyed, or when the body has been donated to science. National Liturgy Office, CCCB, 2500 Don Reid Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada, K1H 2J2, Copyright Concacan Inc. 1998, 2003.
CATHOLICS AND CREMATION Some answers to questions regarding cremation and funerals Page 3 Funeral liturgy with the cremated remains present Because of the 1984 indult granted to the Church in Canada by the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments, the funeral liturgy, including the Eucharist, may be celebrated with the cremated remains of the deceased person present. There are some conditions, namely, that the cremation was not inspired by motives contrary to Christian teaching and that the Bishop of the diocese agrees that it is pastorally proper. The cremated remains, put into a dignified container that shows reverence toward the person's remains, are placed on a small table provided for this purpose. The liturgy will conclude with the final commendation. Signs of reverence toward the body, such as the sprinkling with holy water and the use of incense, may be used. The interment of the remains may then follow the liturgy or take place at another appropriate time. Disposal of cremated remains The great respect the Church has for the bodies of its deceased should also be evident in the way the cremated remains are treated after cremation. This means that they should be put into a worthy container, and all who handle them should treat these remains with care and reverence in the way they are transported and where they are placed. The Church asks that, in keeping with a spirit of reverence, the cremated remains be buried in a grave or entombed in a mausoleum or a columbarium (a place for the entombment of cremated remains), that is, in a place especially designated for this purpose and reserved as such. In addition, a specific place for a person's remains helps focus the remembering and prayer for the deceased person by the family and friends, and by the Church in general. Also, such a place will make it easier to memorialize the deceased, for example, with plaques which record names and dates. Scattering cremated remains on the sea, in the air, on the ground, or keeping them in the homes of relatives does not display appropriate reverence, and the Church does not offer a prayer service when that kind of disposal has been chosen. Scattering the remains in a location that was once the place where the individual spent time may seem emotionally satisfying at the height of mourners' grief, but one should ask this question: Does the desire to scatter the remains on a favourite spot display a tendency to look backward at a life that has passed rather than to look forward to a new dimension to our life with God and to the resurrection of the body? Our belief in the resurrection of National Liturgy Office, CCCB, 2500 Don Reid Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada, K1H 2J2, Copyright Concacan Inc. 1998, 2003.
CATHOLICS AND CREMATION Some answers to questions regarding cremation and funerals Page 4 Jesus and in life after death suggests a more permanent resting place for a Christian's remains. Families are encouraged to approach their pastor or a pastoral minister regarding arrangements for funeral services before they make plans with the funeral home. This is even more necessary when cremation is chosen. Funeral liturgies are for the living and are a vital part of the grieving and healing process. They give families and friends a formal way of remembering and saying goodbye. No one should omit having at least some type of funeral service. National Liturgy Office, CCCB, 2500 Don Reid Drive, Ottawa, ON, Canada, K1H 2J2, Copyright Concacan Inc. 1998, 2003.
READINGS : Page ST. TERESA'S PARISH SCRIPTURE SELECTIONS THE FIRST READING (from the Old Testament) 1 Job 19:23-27 I know that my Redeemer lives 2 Proverbs 31:10-13, 16-18, 20, 26, 28-31 The capable wife 3 Ecclesiastes 3:1-11 Everything has its time 4 Song of Songs 2:8-14 Springtime rhapsody 5 Song of Songs 8:6-7 Set as a seal upon your heart 6 Wisdom 3:1-2, 5-9 The destiny of the righteous 7 Wisdom 4:7-10, 13-15 The righteous, though they die early will be at rest 8 Sirach 44:1, 10-15 Hymn in honour of our ancestors 9 *Isaiah 25:6-9 The Lord God will swallow up death forever 10 Isaiah 35:1-6, 10 The return of the redeemed to Zion 11 Isaiah 41:8-10, 13-14 Do not fear I am with you 12 Isaiah 57:15, 18-19 Those who are contrite and humble in spirit 13 Isaiah 61:1-3 The Spirit of the Lord is upon me 14 Isaiah 65:17-21 New Heavens and a new earth 15 *Lamentations 3:22-26 I will hope in the Lord 16 Ezekiel 34:11-12, 15-16 God the true shepherd 17 Ezekiel 37:1, 4-6, 12-14 The valley of the dry bones 18 Daniel 12:1-3 The resurrection of the dead 19 Micah 6:6-8 What God requires 20 Zephaniah 3:16-17, 20 He will rejoice over you with gladness (* Readings the church recommends as suitable for Children) Scripture quotations are from the New Revised Standard Version of the Bible, copyright 1989 by the National Council of the Churches of Christ in the USA. Used by permission. All rights reserved.
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 1 Job 19:23-27 A reading from the book of Job O that my words were written down! O that they were inscribed in a book! O that with an iron pen and with lead they were engraved on a rock forever! For I know that my Redeemer lives, and that at the last he will stand upon the earth; and after my skin has been thus destroyed, then in my flesh I shall see God, whom I shall see on my side, and my eyes shall behold, and not another. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God.
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 2 A reading from the book of Proverbs A capable wife, who can find her? She is far more precious than jewels. The heart of her husband trusts in her, and he will have no lack of gain. She does him good, and not harm, all the days of her life. She seeks wool and flax, and works with willing hands. She considers a field and buys it; with the fruit of her hands she plants a vineyard. She girds herself with strength, and makes her arms strong. She perceives that her merchandise is profitable. Her lamp does not go out at night. She opens her hand to the poor, and reaches out her hands to the needy. She opens her mouth with wisdom, and the teaching of kindness is on her tongue. Her children rise up and call her happy; her husband too, and he praises her: Many women have done excellently, but you surpass them all. Charm is deceitful, and beauty is vain, but a woman who fears the Lord is to be praised. Give her a share in the fruit of her hands, and let her works praise her in the city gates. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God. Proverbs 31:10-13, 16-18, 20, 26, 28-31
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 3 A reading from the book of Ecclesiastes (i-klee-zee-as-teez) Ecclesiastes 3:1-11 For everything there is a season, and a time for every matter under heaven: a time to be born, and a time to die; a time to plant, and a time to pluck up what is planted; a time to kill, and a time to heal; a time to break down, and a time to build up; a time to weep, and a time to laugh; a time to mourn, and a time to dance; a time to throw away stones, and a time to gather stones together; a time to embrace, and a time to refrain from embracing; a time to seek, and a time to lose; a time to keep, and a time to throw away; a time to tear, and a time to sew; a time to keep silence, and a time to speak; a time to love, and a time to hate; a time for war, and a time for peace. What gain have the workers from their toil? I have seen the business that God has given to everyone to be busy with. He has made everything suitable for its time; moreover, he has put a sense of past and future into their minds, yet they cannot find out what God has done from the beginning to the end. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God.
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 4 A reading from the Song of Songs The voice of my beloved! Look, he comes, leaping upon the mountains, bounding over the hills. My beloved is like a gazelle or a young stag. Look, there he stands behind our wall, gazing in at the windows, looking through the lattice. My beloved speaks and says to me: Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away; for now the winter is past, the rain is over and gone. The flowers appear on the earth; the time of singing has come, and the voice of the turtle-dove is heard in our land. The fig tree puts forth its figs, and the vines are in blossom; they give forth fragrance. Arise, my love, my fair one, and come away. O my dove, in the clefts of the rock, in the covert of the cliff, let me see your face, let me hear your voice; for your voice is sweet, and your face is lovely. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God. Song of Songs 2:8-14
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 5 A reading from the Song of Songs Set me as a seal upon your heart, as a seal upon your arm; for love is strong as death, passion fierce as the grave. Its flashes are flashes of fire, a raging flame. Many waters cannot quench love, neither can floods drown it. If one offered for love all the wealth of one s house, it would be utterly scorned. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God. Song of Songs 8:6-7
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 6 A reading from the book of Wisdom The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment will ever touch them. In the eyes of the foolish they seemed to have died, and their departure was thought to be a disaster. Having been disciplined a little, they will receive great good, because God tested them and found them worthy of himself; like gold in the furnace he tried them, and like a sacrificial burnt offering he accepted them. In the time of their visitation they will shine forth, and will run like sparks through the stubble. They will govern nations and rule over peoples, and the Lord will reign over them forever. Those who trust in him will understand truth, and the faithful will abide with him in love, because grace and mercy are upon his holy ones, and he watches over his elect. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God. Wisdom 3:1-2, 5-9
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 7 A reading from the book of Wisdom The righteous, though they die early, will be at rest. For old age is not honored for length of time, or measured by number of years; but understanding is grey hair for anyone, and a blameless life is ripe old age. There were some who pleased God and were loved by him, and while living among sinners were taken up. Being perfected in a short time, they fulfilled long years; for their souls were pleasing to the Lord, therefore he took them quickly from the midst of wickedness. Yet the peoples saw and did not understand, or take such a thing to heart, that God s grace and mercy are with his elect, and that he watches over his holy ones. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God. Wisdom 4:7-10, 13-15
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 8 A reading from the book of Sirach Let us now sing the praises of the famous, our ancestors in their generations. But these also were godly people, whose righteous deeds have not been forgotten; their wealth will remain with their descendants, and their inheritance with their children s children. Their descendants stand by the covenants; their children also, for their sake. Their offspring will continue for ever, and their glory will never be blotted out. Their bodies are buried in peace, but their name lives on generation after generation. The assembly declares their wisdom, and the congregation proclaims their praise. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God. Sirach 44:1, 10-15
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 9 Isaiah 25:6-9 A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah On this mountain the Lord of hosts will make for all peoples a feast of rich food, a feast of well-matured wines, of rich food filled with marrow, of well-matured wines strained clear. And he will destroy on this mountain the shroud that is cast over all peoples, the sheet that is spread over all nations; he will swallow up death forever. Then the Lord God will wipe away the tears from all faces. It will be said on that day, Lo, this is our God; we have waited for him, so that he might save us. This is the Lord for whom we have waited; let us be glad and rejoice in his salvation. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God.
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 10 Isaiah 35:1-6, 10 A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah The wilderness and the dry land shall be glad, the desert shall rejoice and blossom; like the crocus it shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice with joy and singing. The glory of Lebanon shall be given to it, the majesty of Carmel and Sharon. They shall see the glory of the Lord, the majesty of our God. Strengthen the weak hands, and make firm the feeble knees. Say to those who are of a fearful heart, Be strong, do not fear! Here is your God. He will come and save you. Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf unstopped; then the lame shall leap like a deer, and the tongue of the speechless sing for joy. For waters shall break forth in the wilderness, and streams in the desert; And the ransomed of the Lord shall return, and come to Zion with singing; everlasting joy shall be upon their heads; they shall obtain joy and gladness, and sorrow and sighing shall flee away. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God.
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 11 A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah But you, Israel, my servant, Jacob, whom I have chosen, the offspring of Abraham, my friend; you whom I took from the ends of the earth, and called from its farthest corners, saying to you, You are my servant, I have chosen you and not cast you off ; do not fear, for I am with you, do not be afraid, for I am your God; I will strengthen you, I will help you, I will uphold you with my victorious right hand. For I, the Lord your God, hold your right hand; it is I who say to you, Do not fear, I will help you. I will help you, says the Lord; your Redeemer is the Holy One of Israel. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God. Isaiah 41:8-10, 13-14
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 12 A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah Isaiah 57:15, 18-19 For thus says the high and lofty one who inhabits eternity, whose name is Holy: I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with those who are contrite and humble in spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite. I have seen their ways, but I will heal them; I will lead them and repay them with comfort, creating for their mourners the fruit of the lips. Peace, peace, to the far and the near, says the Lord; and I will heal them. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God.
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 13 Isaiah 61:1-3 A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah The spirit of the Lord God is upon me, because the Lord has anointed me; he has sent me to bring good news to the oppressed, to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim liberty to the captives, and release to the prisoners; to proclaim the year of the Lord's favour, and the day of vengeance of our God; to comfort all who mourn; to provide for those who mourn in Zionto give them a garland instead of ashes, the oil of gladness instead of mourning, the mantle of praise instead of a faint spirit. They will be called oaks of righteousness, the planting of the Lord, to display his glory. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God.
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 14 Isaiah 65:17-21 A reading from the book of the prophet Isaiah For I am about to create new heavens and a new earth; the former things shall not be remembered or come to mind. But be glad and rejoice for ever in what I am creating; for I am about to create Jerusalem as a joy, and its people as a delight. I will rejoice in Jerusalem, and delight in my people; no more shall the sound of weeping be heard in it, or the cry of distress. No more shall there be in it an infant that lives but a few days, or an old person who does not live out a lifetime; They shall build houses and inhabit them; they shall plant vineyards and eat their fruit. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God.
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 15 A reading from the book of Lamentations The steadfast love of the Lord never ceases, his mercies never come to an end; they are new every morning; great is your faithfulness. The Lord is my portion, says my soul, therefore I will hope in him. The Lord is good to those who wait for him, to the soul that seeks him. It is good that one should wait quietly for the salvation of the Lord. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God. Lamentations 3:22-26
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 16 A reading from the book of the prophet Ezekiel Ezekiel 34:11-12, 15-16 For thus says the Lord God: I myself will search for my sheep, and will seek them out. As shepherds seek out their flocks when they are among their scattered sheep, so I will seek out my sheep. I will rescue them from all the places to which they have been scattered. I myself will be the shepherd of my sheep, and I will make them lie down, says the Lord God. I will seek the lost, and I will bring back the strayed, and I will bind up the injured, and I will strengthen the weak, I will feed them with justice. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God.
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 17 A reading from the book of the prophet Ezekiel Ezekiel 37:1, 4-6, 12-14 The hand of the Lord came upon me, and he brought me out by the spirit of the Lord and set me down in the middle of a valley; it was full of bones. Then he said to me, Prophesy to these bones, and say to them: O dry bones, hear the word of the Lord. Thus says the Lord God to these bones: I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live. I will lay sinews on you, and will cause flesh to come upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and you shall live; and you shall know that I am the Lord. Therefore prophesy, and say to them, Thus says the Lord God: I am going to open your graves, and bring you up from your graves, O my people; and I will bring you back to the land of Israel. And you shall know that I am the Lord, when I open your graves, and bring you up from your graves, O my people. I will put my spirit within you, and you shall live, and I will place you on your own soil; then you shall know that I, the Lord, have spoken and will act, says the Lord. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God.
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 18 Daniel 12:1-3 A reading from the book of the prophet Daniel At that time Michael, the great prince, the protector of your people, shall arise. There shall be a time of anguish, such as has never occurred since nations first came into existence. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone who is found written in the book. Many of those who sleep in the dust of the earth shall awake to everlasting life. Those who are wise shall shine like the brightness of the sky, and those who lead many to righteousness, like the stars forever and ever. The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God.
READINGS FROM THE OLD TESTAMENT (First Reading) Page 19 Micah 6:6-8 A reading from the book of the prophet Micah With what shall I come before the Lord, and bow myself before God on high? Shall I come before him with burnt-offerings, with calves a year old? Will the Lord be pleased with thousands of rams, with tens of thousands of rivers of oil? Shall I give my firstborn for my transgression, the fruit of my body for the sin of my soul? He has told you, O mortal, what is good; and what does the Lord require of you but to do justice, and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God? The word of the Lord. Response: Thanks be to God.